Coral Coast Foundation Corp. launches sustainable initiatives

The Coral Coast Foundation Corp., a non-profit organization, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to launch its green initiatives and promote healthy eating habits within the community, especially for the children of the CNMI last Thursday afternoon at the farm site in Agingan.

The launch of the project is in collaboration with the Northern Marianas College-Cooperative Research, Extension and Education Services and Children Healthy Living Center Hawaii. The latter focuses on growing fresh produce through sustainable farming such as hydroponic systems to foster healthier lifestyle choices in children.

“Today embarks the beginning of a mission for sustainable initiatives of CCFC. As we mark this launch, we are to do a symbolic ribbon cutting,” said Kalayaan Inc.’s Airen Padilla Lerio.

The ceremony was attended by the Philippine Congressman Rodante Marcoleta, NMC-CREES acting dean Patty Coleman, Charles Aiseam of the CNMI Department of Agriculture, Capas, Tarlac in the Philippines Mayor Antonio Rodriguez, and staff of Kalayaan Inc.

According to CCFC director Eleanor Alinas, the foundation aims to redefine agricultural practices to balance food cultivation with ecological preservation, adding that the foundation is committed to creating a healthier and more resilient future for the CNMI, particularly for school-aged children.

“Today I am thrilled to stand before you to launch the Coral Coast Foundation. We are passionate about advancing our sustainable green initiative in a world where agricultural practices often clash with ecological balance. We are committed to redefining how we cultivate our food, protect our planet and our islands, and nourish our communities particularly our school-aged children in the CNMI. We have the vision, and this is to have a healthier, more resilient future. Our mission is rooted in the principles of sustainability. Practices that not only yield high quality produced but also conserve resources, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change,” said Alinas.

Alinas acknowledged Coleman for NMC-CREES’ support in sustainable farming methods as CCFC prioritized growing salad greens and seasonal produce to minimize transportation emissions and ensure fresh and nutritious food.

Alinas added that education is a key component of their mission, with plans for workshops, farm tours, and community events to share sustainable practices.

“We want to empower individuals and families to make informed choices, whether it’s starting their own home gardens or understanding the impact of their food choices. As we launch Coral Coast Foundation, we invite you to join us on this journey together,” added Alinas.

Coleman then thanked Alinas for her inspiring remarks and highlighted the importance of CCFC in the Marianas.

“One of the things that’s just so wonderful with the Coral Coast Foundation is them being exemplary trailblazers in the [Northern] Mariana Islands, and the integration of growing fresh, wholesome food, the best possible food that we can give to our children in the CNMI through the CNMI breakfast and lunch program, coupled with an excellent, resilient business model through Kalayaan is something to really be celebrating,” said Coleman.

Coleman mentioned that the success of CCFC has inspired other stateside partners, who plan to use it as a case study for other regions, and that NMC reaffirms its commitment to working with CCFC to achieve sustainable development in the Marianas.

Meanwhile, Aiseam expressed his division’s support and assistance to the CCFC projects.

“Our office will support and send in projects like this to improve the local farming industry. So, with our support, we would like to come and assist you guys on whatever projects that you guys are doing under this foundation. That is something we are looking for,” said Aiseam.

The event’s special guest of honor, Marcoleta, who just flew in from the Philippines, conveyed his support for the project.

Marcoleta in his speech emphasized the importance of eating to live and the significance of the program in achieving sustainable development goals.

“The launching of this program is very worthwhile because I think it is No. 2 and No. 3 in the sustainable development goals (referring to zero hunger, and good health and well-being). The very purpose of this mission and advocacy is to be able to inspire people to grow food for our table,” said Marcoleta.

The congressman discussed the high prices of basic staples in the Philippines and the importance of agriculture for food self-sufficiency. He also highlighted the need for patience and flexibility in promoting sustainable agriculture and feeding children.

Moreover, Marcoleta shared the HAPAG program in the Philippines which encourages people to grow fruit and other staples.

“HAPAG is a program initiated by two departments in my country and encourages indigenous people because they have the lands. They have 13 million hectares of land to plant fruits and other staples,” said Marcoleta.

Marcoleta ended his remarks by wishing CCFC success and thanked its funders and NMC-CREES.

The event concluded with the planting of the coconut seedlings, which will be used as the farm borders to enhance the future look of the farm facility.